Intel 20Gbps Thunderbolt controllers

Intel introduced its next-gen Thunderbolt technology, which promises 20Gbps throughput in both directions, double as much as the current Thunderbolt controllers. The new Thunderbolt update is backwards compatible with previous-generation cables and connectors, and enables 4K video file transfer. Production is set to ramp up in 2014.

At the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) show this week in Las Vegas, Intel made some key announcements regarding Thunderbolt™ technology, the fastest data connection available in your personal computer. Intel introduced the Intel® DSL4510/4410 Thunderbolt controllers which add DisplayPort 1.2 capability when connecting to native DP displays, improve power management, and reduce platform BOM cost. Intel also previewed early prototype silicon of its next-generation Thunderbolt controller codenamed Falcon Ridge, which runs at 20Gbs, enabling 4K video file transfer and display simultaneously. Initial production is expected before the end of this year, with ramp in 2014.

The next-gen Thunderbolt tech (code-named Falcon Ridge) enables 4K video file transfer and display simultaneously in addition to running at 20 Gbps. It will be backward-compatible with previous-gen Thunderbolt cables and connectors, and production is set to ramp up in 2014. An on-stage demo with fresh-off-the-press silicon showed the new Thunderbolt running 1,200 MBps, which is certainly a step up from what's currently on the market.